Auctioneering: It’s More Than Just Fast Talking

The weekend of June 24-27, 2021 was a busy one for Arkansas Auctioneers Association (AAA). This is when auctioneers from across Arkansas gather for the Annual AAA Summer Meeting, in Hot Springs, AR, at the Hotel Hot Springs & Spa.

While auctioneers come for continuing education credit, the convention offers many more opportunities for both seasoned veterans of the auction profession as well as newcomers to the industry. Some say it’s the competition that attracts them. Others say it’s the entertaining nature of the business. Whatever the case, people everywhere are sold on auctions.

Real estate, collector cars, antiques, art, business equipment, electronics, livestock…it’s hard to name something that hasn’t been sold at auction. No one understands this better than the auctioneer himself. People who attend auctions often only see the auctioneer as someone who shows up the day of the auction and “talks fast”. Ask any full-time auctioneer and you will find out that there is more to it than fast-talking.

On Friday, June 24, the 2021 AAA Summer Meeting kicked off with our Annual Competitions. The Arkansas Auctioneers Championship Bid Calling Champion, the sought-after title at each years’ meeting. This is where men and women alike compete for this prestigious title and the opportunity to represent Arkansas, not only at a state level but also at the National Auctioneer Champion Contest held July 14-18, 2020, in San Diego, California.

There is truly something for everyone at this convention, in addition to Champion Bid Calling, Champion of Champions, the Junior and Rookie Contests are included for the novice beginner and the Ringman competition is fierce. The following winners were announced at the 2020 Winter Meeting.

Pro Contestant Finalists

1st Place: Matthew Sandmann

2nd Place: Josh Phelps

3rd Place: Zachary Vierheller

Ringman Contestants

1st Place: Matthew Sandmann

2nd Place: Ed Vestal

3rd Place: Zachary Vierheller

Rookie Contest

1st Place: Ben Bevins

2nd Place: Ethan Davis

3rd Place: Don Krejsek

Jr Contestants

1st Place: Henry Witcher

2nd Place: Griffin Witcher

3rd Place: Christopher Corker

2021 Advertising Contest Winners

- Color Brochure: People’s Company
- Post Card: People’s Company
- Website: Witcher Auctions
- Social Media Page: Witcher Auctions
- Commercial Video: People’s Company
- Radio Spot: Wade Andrews Auction Services

Last but not least, each year the AAA chooses an individual for the prestigious title of the AAA Hall of Fame Inductee. This year, Kenneth Witcher & Ken Warner were selected for this honor.

Auctioneers create a competitive and entertaining atmosphere that attracts consumers to the sale. Their hand gestures, eye contact with the crowd and their rhythmic “chant” stirs buyers and brings the sale to life. It’s what separates auctions from other types of sales. Though one of the oldest methods of sale around, auctions continue to thrive and grow and are held today around the world. Auctioning has stayed tried and true with the times and continues to be a favorite among buyers and sellers.

About the AAA

The Arkansas Auctioneers Association (AAA) is a state-wide association dedicated to improving professionalism in the auction industry and promoting the auction method of marketing. The Association offers leadership, support, information and assistance to its members through its various committees and services, and lobbies to protect and enhance auction interests in the State. Members in good standing in the Arkansas Auctioneers Association abide by Arkansas Auction Law, AAA By-Laws and a strict Code of Ethics.

The Arkansas Auctioneers Association is the professional organization for practicing Auctioneers, their associates, affiliated businesses and other related professionals. Membership in the AAA although voluntary, carries with it a requirement of professional commitment to other Auctioneers, affiliates, clients, customers and the public at large that extends beyond that of laws and professional regulations. Members of the AAA accept this obligation to conduct themselves and their businesses in a manner that serves the public interest, protects the public trust and furthers the goals of their profession.. To learn more about auctioneers and auctions visit the AAA web site at: www.arkansasauctioneers.org.